How do I know if it's arthritis or fibromyalgia?
Arthritis is joint disease — pain, stiffness and often swelling in specific joints, visible on examination or imaging. Fibromyalgia is a widespread pain-processing condition — pain and tenderness spread across the body, plus fatigue, poor sleep and 'fibro fog', with normal joint examination and imaging. It's common to have both. Diagnosis of fibromyalgia is clinical, based on ACR criteria.
Last updated 2026-07-04. This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
When would you pick Arthritis?
Localised joint pain; visible swelling; imaging changes; morning stiffness in specific joints.
When would you pick Fibromyalgia?
Widespread body pain; tenderness on touch; fatigue; sleep issues; 'fibro fog'.
What should I be careful about?
Both respond to graded exercise, sleep hygiene and CBT — different medications from your GP.